The Gateshead Business network has secured the backing of two of the region's largest firms.
Ward Hadaway and RSM have agreed to sponsor the organisation, which has more than 800 members from businesses across the town.
It supports small to medium-sized enterprises, and has been specifically designed to encourage business growth, offering networking events, opportunities, news and events. Services also includes assisting businesses with premises search for new start-ups or support expansion.
Both Ward Hadaway and RSM have been involved with the Gateshead Business Network since 2014, having now renewed relationships. As part of the agreements, the former will offer free monthly legal advice drop-in sessions and the latter will assist in providing businesses and accountancy support.
Steven Roper, associate in the commercial team at Ward Hadaway, said: "We have really enjoyed working with the network and its members over the past three years and playing our part in helping businesses across Gateshead to start up and grow.
"Renewing our support for the organisation is a great way to help promote entrepreneurship in the borough and to provide support to small and medium-sized businesses in the area."
Richard Urron, partner in the tax team at RSM, added: "We are very pleased to be joining with Ward Hadaway in helping local members access expert advice on tax and financial matters in order to grow and improve their businesses.
"We hope that our mutual offering of legal and accounting support will enable further business success throughout the region, providing more opportunities for local people."
Adele Kalow of the Gateshead Business Network believes securing both Ward Hadaway and RSM as partners is "great news for network and for all of our members."
"Both firms are very well known and very well respected for the quality of the advice which they provide so we look forward to working with them over the coming year to support local businesses and encourage entrepreneurship across the borough," she said.